Web alert: IMB publishes first quarter report on piracy and armed robbery 2015

In the first three months of 2015, there were 54 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships, an increase from 49 in the same period of 2014.

The IMB has published its report on piracy and armed robbery for the first quarter of 2015, covering the period from 1 January to 31 March 2015.

The IMB states that there have been no reported incidents of piracy off Somalia*. However, in the first three months of 2015, there were 54 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships, an increase from 49 in the same period of 2014. In South-East Asia, it is reported that a successful hijacking takes place at least once every two weeks.

In relation to crew, between January and March 2015, there have been 140 crew members taken hostage, 13 assaulted, five kidnapped, three injured and one crew member killed. All kidnappings took place in Nigeria.

Of the 54 incidents reported, the majority of those were focused in the following three countries:

The main ships affected are bulk carriers (22 incidents), followed by product tankers (7 incidents) and container ships (4 incidents).

The club advises members to be vigilant in areas affected by piracy and to be aware that a risk still exists off Somalia. Members should comply with the latest version of Best Management Practices (currently 4) and related guidance in all affected areas. For further information, members should get in touch with their usual club contact.

*The club is aware of one unconfirmed hijacking off Somalia on 26 March 2015 which involved a fishing vessel.

カテゴリー: Maritime Security